4 Romantic Cities Every Man Should Take His Wife To

Here’s a classic 10-14 day travel guide covering Paris, Venice, Prague, and Budapest, blending romance, history, and Central European charm—perfect for first-time visitors. --- **Itinerary Overview** **Duration**: 12-14 days **Route**: Paris (4 days) → Venice (2 days) → Prague (3 days) → Budapest (3 days) **Transport**: Flights/high-speed trains between cities (Paris→Venice by flight, Venice→Prague by flight, Prague→Budapest by night train or bus). --- **1. Paris (4 days)** **Theme**: Art, romance, French lifestyle **Must-see spots**: - **Eiffel Tower**: Best visited at dusk for stunning night views. - **Louvre Museum**: Allocate half a day; focus on the *Mona Lisa* and *Winged Victory*. - **Montmartre**: Visit Sacré-Cœur and Place du Tertre for Parisian bohemian vibes. - **Seine River Cruise**: Opt for Bateaux Mouches, especially at night. - **Musée d’Orsay**: A paradise for Impressionist lovers (Van Gogh, Monet). **Hidden gems**: - Le Marais district: Explore vintage shops and cafés. - Catacombs of Paris: A hauntingly unique experience. **Food**: - Breakfast: Croissant + coffee (any local bakery will do). - French cuisine: Try duck confit (Chez L'Ami Jean) or escargots (L'Escargot Montorgueil). --- **2. Venice (2 days)** **Theme**: Canals, Renaissance magic **Must-see spots**: - **St. Mark’s Square**: Climb the bell tower for panoramic views; visit St. Mark’s Basilica. - **Grand Canal**: Ride a gondola (~€80/boat) or budget-friendly vaporetto. - **Burano Island**: Half-day trip for Instagram-worthy colorful houses. **Tips**: - Stay in Mestre (10-min train to Venice) to save on accommodation. - Avoid peak season (July-August) for fewer crowds and lower prices. **Food**: - Black squid ink pasta (Trattoria da Romano), tiramisu (I Tre Mercanti). --- **3. Prague (3 days)** **Theme**: Fairytale castles, Bohemian charm **Must-see spots**: - **Charles Bridge**: Sunrise offers fewer crowds and magical views. - **Prague Castle**: The world’s largest ancient castle complex; watch the changing of the guard. - **Old Town Square**: Astronomical Clock show; climb the Old Town Hall tower. - **Český Krumlov**: Day trip option (2-hour bus ride). **Local experiences**: - Beer Spa: Soak in Czech beer culture. - Letná Park at night: Breathtaking citylight views. **Food**: - Roasted pork knee (Lokál), cinnamon chimney cake (Trdelník). --- **4. Budapest (3 days)** **Theme**: Pearl of the Danube, thermal baths **Must-see spots**: - **Fisherman’s Bastion**: Free entry at dawn for panoramic Danube views. - **Széchenyi Thermal Bath**: Europe’s largest spa—bring a swimsuit! - **Parliament Building**: Spectacular when lit at night; join a guided tour. - **Ruin Bars (Szimpla Kert)**: Must-visit nightlife spot in a repurposed factory. **Top experience**: - Danube night cruise with champagne—Parliament’s reflection is unforgettable. **Food**: - Goulash soup, chimney cake (Kürtőskalács). --- **Travel Tips** 1. **Transport**: - Eurail Pass suits multi-country trips, but compare prices in advance. - Walk + use public transport (Paris Metro, Prague trams are efficient). 2. **Budget**: - Mid-range: ~€150-200/day (covers lodging, meals, attractions). 3. **Season**: - Best time: April-June or September-October; avoid summer crowds and heat. 4. **Pro tips**: - Book popular attractions early (e.g., Louvre, St. Mark’s Basilica). - Carry some cash (euros/local currency), though cards are widely accepted.